CHOOSING A SEALER
There are two broad categories of sealers: Topical Sealers and Impregnating Sealers. Each of these types of sealers has unique benefits and areas where they excel. The biggest difference is that topical sealers change the appearance of the stone while impregnating sealers leave a natural appearance.
Topical Sealers
A topical sealer is a protective coating which leaves a visible, color enhancing barrier on the surface of the stone. Topical sealers penetrate to protect below the surface, but they also provide a tough, durable, barrier across the surface of the stone.
Topical sealers are especially effective in high traffic areas, outdoor spaces, and on porous surfaces which can stain easily. They serve as a sacrificial layer, protecting the stone while making maintenance easier. Topical sealers are the most effective sealers for stain protection.
Topical sealers can be used on nearly any type of natural stone surface, except when the stone is polished or glazed, as a topical sealer generally will not bond and have trouble penetrating.
Impregnating Sealers
An impregnating sealer creates a transparent barrier to protect natural stone surfaces from water, oils, and staining.
Impregnating sealers work by chemically reacting with the stone. This forms a hydrophobic, invisible membrane, that inhibits water and oil molecules from penetrating the surface. Impregnating sealers do not alter a stone's natural appearance, leaving treated surfaces with a natural finish.
Impregnating sealers excel on surfaces that are wet frequently, areas that are exposed to oils, and on very dense or polished surfaces.
